Massive Earthquake: A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and felt as far as Bangkok.
High Casualties: Over 1,600 deaths reported, and the toll is expected to rise.
Infrastructure Damage: Critical infrastructure in Mandalay and Naypyidaw, including airports, highways, and buildings, severely damaged. Naypyitaw International Airport damage diverted aid flights to Yangon.
Cause: Sagaing Fault: Earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, a strike-slip fault and a tectonic plate boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates. Shallow depth (10 km) intensified the shaking.
Strike-Slip Faulting: The Sagaing Fault is a type of fault where the blocks slide past each other horizontally.
Lack of Preparedness: Myanmar’s cities were ill-prepared for such a powerful quake. The region’s relative seismic quietness meant buildings weren’t built to withstand strong seismic forces. Last major quake was in 1956.
Aid Difficulties: Reaching devastated cities is challenging.
Local Response: Rescue efforts in Mandalay are mainly conducted by small, self-organized resident groups lacking proper equipment.
Hospitals Overwhelmed: Hospitals in Mandalay and Sagaing struggle with the influx of injured.
International Aid: India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Russia are providing relief materials and teams. India is setting up a field hospital in Mandalay.
Economic Impact: Potential economic impact could reach 70% of Myanmar’s GDP.
